The Foley and Balmer properties were purchased by Metro through the Metro 26-26 bond measure. The Foley property had been used primarily as a stable for over 90 years. Before that it was a rich and lush forest with Tryon Creek running through the heart of it. Today there is an abundance of plant and animal life present. The natural area includes both meadows and forested areas with walking paths and a footbridge crossing Tryon Creek.
Thanks to funding from the voter-approved Parks Replacement Bond, PP&R replaced a bridge in the Foley-Balmer Natural Area and the Owl Creek Bridge in Marshall Park. Both bridges were out of service for several years and the replacements reconnected popular SW trails. The bridge replacements were complete and open for use in October 2019.